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Printed article from unknown newspaper regarding a collection of jewelry made by silversmith Samuel Bell and the history of the Bell Jewelry Company. "Gold Button Adds to Bell Collection. Tom M. Scaperlanda, president of Bell Jewelry Company, has one more piece to add to his collection of jewelry made in the early days of San Antonio by Samuel Bell, founder of the firm. This piece is a solid gold, hand carved, collar button brought to Bell's by a rancher who boasted the button withstood more than 50 years wear before it lost its usefulness. Scaperlanda gladly replaced the item and added the old piece to his collection. 'Many prominent old families of the Southwest bring to us fine examples of the Bell Brothers' craftsmanship in precious metal. It is through this source that we have built our collection,' Scaperlanda said. Formed in 1852. Bell Jewelry Company was formed in 1852 by Samuel Bell and his sons David and James Bell, and was first known as Bell & Sons. All were practical workmen, jewelers and silversmiths skilled in the art of working precious metals into the intricate and beautiful articles of use and adornment. Many of San Antonio's leading families are today proud possessors of heirlooms of this description, hand-wrought by Bell's from Mexican silver dollars, now almost priceless because of the rarity and beauty of their design. Made Bowie Knives. The Bell's were also cutlers as well as jewelers and 'Bowie' knives with hand-carved handles, beautifully chased and adorned were also made by this firm. Fine examples of their skill may still be seen in local antique collections. That the store was patronized by the leading families of the day is evidenced by the many prominent names inscribed on the books of the business in the early 50's. Among the famous patrons listed were Lieut. Robert E. Lee, Lieut. U. S. Grant and Capt. Jeff Davis. In June of 1922, the Bell Jewelry company was incorporated. Its present location is 516 East Houston."